Dispersed camping opportunities near New Bloomfield, Missouri extend beyond the established recreation areas into various conservation lands. The region's elevation ranges from 500-800 feet with a humid continental climate characterized by four distinct seasons. Spring camping typically begins in March when daytime temperatures reach 50-60°F, though nights can remain cold through April.
What to do
Trail exploration at Three Creeks Conservation Area: This free camping destination offers multiple hiking routes through diverse terrain. "An easy and beautiful spot to camp for free near I-70. About 15 minutes of a stunning drive away from the interstate. Plenty of sites, lots, and places to rest for the night," notes Ruby W., who appreciated the trail access from the parking area.
Disc golf at Binder Park: Located 23 miles southwest of New Bloomfield, this park features a complete disc golf course alongside camping. "Great park. Clean and reasonable," writes Darin D. The course loops through wooded areas and open fields, providing varied play for all skill levels.
Fishing opportunities at Cedar Creek Resort: Multiple stocked ponds provide fishing access for campers. "The fishing was great, amenities were fantastic, and the hosts were amazing. Free rentals on pontoon boats, kayaks, and paddle boats," according to Jason R., who visited with extended family. No fishing license is required when fishing in the private ponds at this location.
Water activities at Cooper's Landing Campgrounds and Marina: Direct Missouri River access provides opportunities for boating, kayaking and riverside relaxation. "Coopers Landing Missouri. Rustic. You come down winding rolling roads then onto gravel to get here. Katy bike trail on one side Missouri River on other side," explains Brenda P., who describes the river as "wide and deep here" with visible "swirling and churning" currents.
What campers like
Evening entertainment at Cooper's Landing: The riverside campground regularly hosts live music events. "The evening band was awesome!" notes Jeanne K. Another camper, Shawn A., describes finding "this little oasis" with "good people and a fun time. Food truck set up and beer was being sold. Gorgeous lookout onto the Missouri River. They have a stage for live music."
Private, wooded sites at Pine Ridge Recreation Area: Campers appreciate the secluded feel of these sites despite their accessibility. "Set in the Cedar Creek District of the mark Twain National Forest this campground is perfect for a night stay or a backpacking trip. On site camp hostess and privy. Great hammock camping," writes Curtis M. The campground offers designated spots with picnic tables and fire rings in a pine forest setting.
Historical elements at Dry Fork Recreation Area: Campers enjoy discovering remnants of the region's past while hiking. "Great primitive campground with old homestead foundation along the trail. Perfect stop during you back packing trekk," mentions Curtis M. The equestrian-focused campground welcomes non-horse campers when other nearby sites are full.
Well-maintained facilities at Hanson Hills Campground: Despite some minor organization issues, visitors appreciate the maintained amenities. "This campground is pretty stripped down. There are vault toilets and that's it for amenities. However, it is also one of my favorites close to home to hike. The campsites are always clean, but you almost always find litter in the fire rings," explains Jenn L.
What you should know
Seasonal closures and changing fee structures: Campground operations vary throughout the year. "I arrived at the site in April of 2025, and was greeted with a locked gate and signage stating rates are $15 per night. Envelopes and lock box are in place," reports Ron R. about Pine Ridge Recreation Area. Another camper noted "Closed for the season" in October.
Tick prevalence on trails: Parasitic insects can be problematic, particularly in warmer months. "We had a fine one-night stay while traveling through, but encountered A LOT of ticks on the overgrown trail. BEWARE of ticks and check yourselves and your pets if staying here," warns Meghan B. about her stay at Dry Fork.
Variable road conditions: Access roads range from paved to gravel with seasonal challenges. One camper at Cottonwoods RV Park & Campground mentions: "Some roads are gravel and chalky leading there (my cars still covered and I'm in Colorado now!)" Gravel roads can become dusty in dry conditions or muddy after rain.
Proximity to noise sources: Several camping areas experience noise from surrounding properties or infrastructure. At Three Creeks Conservation Area, Ron R. notes: "Only draw back is the Columbia Regional Airport is about 4-5 miles from this location. There is air traffic overhead." Similar concerns exist at other sites.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access at Cottonwoods: Families with children will find dedicated play areas at select campgrounds. "Great playground. Several large rigs in our row, we still fit. Decorated wonderfully for Halloween. Kids are happy!" reports Brittany W. about Cottonwoods RV Park & Campground, which also offers a swimming pool during summer months.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Multiple conservation areas provide chances to observe native species. At Dry Fork Recreation Area, Charlotte B. notes, "We love hiking this area. There are fields and wooded areas along with a beautiful creek. It's fun to search for mushrooms and you are guaranteed to see deer and turkey."
Space considerations at Cedar Creek Resort & RV Park: This facility offers cabin options for families who don't have camping equipment. "Out new favorite place! this campground has everything for a perfect long weekend! The cabins are spectacular and right on the water! We just took 40+ family members and everyone fell in love with this campground," shares Jason R.
Water activities for children: Some facilities offer water recreation options. Cedar Creek provides "Free rentals on pontoon boats, kayaks, and paddle boats" according to Jason R., while Binder Park features a 137-acre lake that's "great for kayaking but can be a bit busy on weekends," per Cathy S.
Tips from RVers
Site spacing considerations: RV campers should note proximity between sites at different campgrounds. At Osage Campground Retreat, T N. advises to "Ask for a site around the perimeter for privacy." Cottonwoods RV Park has "spaces very close to each other. But the campers around us were very nice," according to Jessica B.
Leveling requirements: Site preparation varies between locations. At Cooper's Landing, Jim K. notes: "We were in a small trailer, fit the spot perfectly, but had to park in the glamping spot due to no other room on our spot." At Cottonwoods, one RVer reported: "Our pull-through site was nice and level. Only had to level front to back."
Water and electric hookup access: Utility availability differs between sites. Pine Ridge does not offer hookups while Cedar Creek Resort provides full service. "Campground is on a short gravel road and sites are gravel. Sites are pretty level and WiFi is good," reports George L. about Cedar Creek Resort, though noting "bathhouses are pretty new and adequate but a pretty long walk from the transit sites."
